Apistogramma Panduro, "Blue Panda" Apisto

An attractive iridescent blue dwarf cichlid from the "Nijsseni Complex," the "Blue Panda" Apisto is a very closely related sister species to the Apistogramma nijsseni. In fact, the two species were discovered in the same river, with one species being found above a waterfall and the other below, suggesting that geographic isolation eventually led to speciation between these populations that shared a common ancestor.

Being a blackwater species, Apistogramma Panduro enjoys soft, tannic acid water conditions with pH ranging from 5.5-7.5 (lower end preferred for viable eggs) and will readily accept frozen and live foods. Proper conditioning with good foods will naturally trigger spawning, with females laying eggs on the roof of any cave structures and males fertilizing soon after. Sinking pellets will be taken as well but not with as much gusto.

Being a peaceful dwarf cichlid the will tolerate and cohabitate with nanofish rasboras, small tetras and pencilfish.